COVID-19 and Anxiety: Helpful Advice from 

Rahn Kennedy Bailey, MD, DFAPA, ACP

 

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What is situational anxiety? 

 

Anxiety is a normal part of life and in some cases, it can be beneficial. For example, anxiety can push you to study harder to pass an exam. It is also a defense mechanism, helping you to cope with difficult or unpleasant emotions without bringing harm; anxiety is the initial emotion of “fight or flight”. However, when there is extreme and excessive anxiety, it becomes harmful. One cannot remain in a state of fight-or-flight for an extended period of time without any time for rest and full recovery. 

 

Situational anxiety is characterized by feelings of panic, stress, fear and worry when a person is exposed to a particular stressor. These episodes are repetitive and triggered by a change or something harmful in the environment.

 

When the feelings of anxiety are difficult to control, out of proportion to the actual danger in an environment, and interfere with daily activities, one should seek help from a psychiatrist.  Other symptoms to seek help for are restlessness, paranoia/fear of impending doom, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, increased sweating, trembling, difficulty in concentration, sleep disturbances, irritability, muscle tension, and avoidance of the stressful situation. Also, these episodes should not be attributable to something else, like the side effects of a substance or other medical conditions.

 

 

What are some of the most common fears/anxious thoughts individuals are having in response to Corona virus? 

 

The novel Corona virus is “scary” because it is new to the human population.  Thus, there is no immunity in the human population. People are fearful that they might catch it and die, as there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19 or medications to treat it.

 

As a rule, people are afraid of the unknown. We fear what we do not understand, and we want to get rid of that fear by seeking control. However, we are making great strides in research for treatments and vaccines. It is important for all of us to focus on hope and not fear. There is a solution for every problem. The question is: are we willing to do what it takes to bring it to fruition? Social/ physical distancing is how we all can participate and garner some control in this fight and help bring the necessary solutions to fruition.

 

 

What are the best ways to manage your anxiety, particularly in relation to COVID-19? 

 

Some anxiety is normal, particularly in relation to the COVID-19 outbreak.

First, perform a simple risk assessment by asking yourself if you have any reason to be at risk. This is the World Health Organization’s (WHO) advice and recommendation to the public: “If you are not in an area where COVID-19 is spreading, or have not travelled from an area where COVID-19 is spreading, or have not been in contact with an infected person, your risk of infection is low.”

 

Two, avoid needless worry and anxiety by getting facts from reliable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO. It is important to get accurate information about the situation and take appropriate measures to protect yourself and your family.

 

Three, reduce the amount of time you spend on social media or news sites that are upsetting. Yes, you want to stay informed—especially if you have loved ones in affected areas—but remember to take a break from watching the news.

 

Four, try to establish a “somewhat” normal routine, even though your regular routine may be uprooted. Go to work; attend classes- even from home; set routines and boundaries.

 

Five, stay healthy. Wash your hands often with soap and water. Avoid touching your face. Take a daily multi-vitamin, eat a healthy diet, and get plenty of rest. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.